sexual assault services

Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE)

Today, more than ever before, people are aware that sexual assault is a crime that can happen to anyone.

When the subject of rape is raised, the image that most often flashes into the mind is that of the stranger in the alley. In fact, over 80% of rapes are committed by someone the victim knows, often in a supposedly "safe" environment.

What do you do if you are raped

Go somewhere you feel safe.

Do not bathe, douche, clean up, change your clothes, eat or drinking anything, or straighten up the area where the rape occurred.

Even if you have already cleaned up or changed your clothes, please still come to the emergency room. There may still be a possibility of collecting evidence.

SAFE is part of an innovative nationwide movement that recognizes the need for compassionate, non-judgmental care for persons reporting a sexual assault. Examiners are expert at comprehensive assessment and identification of injuries and objective documentation. These forensic (legal) skills are provided with a concern for and an understanding of the emotional and social impact of a sexual assault.

If you have been sexually assaulted and call the RFS Hotline at 845-634-3344, a Rape Crisis Counselor will speak with you about your options, including the choice to report to the hospital Emergency Department for a compassionate and thorough examination by the Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner. Once at the hospital Emergency Department, the Rape Crisis Counselor and the Examiner will explain what your rights are and what choices you have. Included in these options are examinations, medications to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, emergency contraception, evidence collection, police notification, and or pressing charges against the attacker. You will not be pressured to make any choice — you will be given the option to consent to any of these services freely. You can choose any or all of these services. If you want the evidence collected from your body but are not sure if you want to press charges, the evidence will be held for 30 days while you consider your options.

Professionally led, time limited therapy groups for survivors of sexual assault, abuse and incest (groups will be formed according to demand)

Support services for friends and family members of survivors of sexual assault and sexual abuse

Educational outreach programs for schools, companies and the community at large

Training programs for the professional community

Medical and legal information and referral services

SAFE: Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Program

Crime Victims Compensation Assistance

If you have been assaulted, please call the RFS Hotline at 845.634.3344 for more information. If you think you might want the evidence collected, we ask you not to shower, use the bathroom, brush your teeth, change you clothes, or eat or drink anything before you come to the hospital Emergency Department.